But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. [Galatians 6:14]

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

PRAYING WITH POWER part2

Sometimes we know exactly how to pray [ or at least we think we do] but at other times it seems we don't have a clue and that is when the baptism in the Holy Spirit becomes important in our prayer life.During the times we feel hindered in our praying, the Holy Spirit begins to pray through us. The Spirit searches the heart and begins to pray according to the will of God. Look at Romans 8:26-27 " Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weakness. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God."

The important thing is what comes out of our hearts. Prayer is spending time with God. Do you remember when you first fell in love? You wanted to spend time with that person, but it seemed that you were very awkward every time you wanted to say that you loved them. The feelings were there but sometimes you just couldn't find the right words. People who love us don't care what words we always use, they just want to know that we love them enough to spend time with them and that we value them. It is no different in our relationship with God. God is most interested in knowing that you love Him and want to spend time with Him. "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me". [Revelation 3:20]

As it regards prayer, remember that good relationships consist of 2 people giving and 2 people receiving. If you want a close relationship with God, make sure you know how to give as well as receive. It is true that we can never outgive the Lord, remember He longs for relationship--- and a key part of our giving to Him is our thanksgiving, our praise, our worship, and our love gifts.

Jesus taught His disciples to; Glorify God--- "Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name." Reverence God---"Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Ask God---"give us this day our daily bread." Repent to God---"Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors". Commit to God---"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil". Worship God--- "For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen".

This example prayer is found in Matthew 6:9-13. Jesus was here showing us how to enter prayer relationship with God. Much of the prayer involves praise, honoring God and worshipping Him.

When we come back to you again, we will look more at praying with power.